FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 12, 2025
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Rep. Harless Files Legislation to Let Texans Decide
Rep. Sam Harless, R-Spring, filed House Joint Resolution 134 Wednesday to give Texans the chance to vote on whether they want a regulated, taxed and licensed sports betting market. If lawmakers approve the constitutional amendment, it will lead to a statewide vote in November.
“We appreciate Rep. Harless introducing this constitutional amendment,” said Karina Kling, spokesperson for the Texas Sports Betting Alliance. “Right now, unregulated sports betting is happening across the state, putting consumers at risk and costing Texas millions in lost tax revenue every year. It’s time to let Texans take control and decide if they want a strong, regulatory framework for sports betting—just like the 39 states that have already moved forward.”
Efforts to legalize sports betting are supported by every major professional sports team in the state. Recent polling also shows Texans overwhelmingly favor legalizing online sports betting.
Data from Eilers & Krejcik, an independent research and consulting firm, estimates that once mature, the legal online sports betting market in Texas could generate a projected $363 million annually in direct tax revenue for the state – revenue that could help lower property taxes and fund crucial public services such as education, healthcare and infrastructure.